Thobile, Melusi for Iraq Al-Basra Half Marathon


Athletics Eswatini has officially bid farewell to a three-member delegation that will represent the Kingdom of Eswatini at the 1st Al-Basra International Half Marathon, taking place on Friday, 25 April 2025 in the Basra Governorate, Iraq.

A send-off ceremony, hosted at the EOCGA offices in Lobamba, marked the occasion. In attendance were Mr Maxwell Jele, Chief Executive Officer of the Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA), and Mr Darius Dlomo, Chief Executive Officer of the Eswatini Sports and Recreation Council (ESRC).

Flying the national flag high will be:

  • Thobile Ngwenyama, representing the Correctional Athletics Club
  • Melusi Khumalo, from UEDF Athletics Club
  • Mr Zakhele Dlamini, President of Athletics Eswatini and President of the Confederation of African Athletics - Southern Region (CAA-SR)

Their participation underscores a significant stride for Eswatini athletics as it continues to cement its presence on the global stage.


The Importance of the Al-Basra Marathon for Eswatini

The event offers more than just a race—it serves as a strategic platform for growth, development, and international recognition.

1. International Exposure:
Competing alongside elite athletes from around the world allows Eswatini’s representatives to benchmark their performance and gain invaluable experience.

2. Networking and Collaboration:
International events of this calibre foster relationships that can open doors to training opportunities and future global competitions.

3. Raising the Nation’s Profile:
By stepping onto the international stage, these athletes bring visibility and pride to Eswatini, showcasing the country’s sporting potential.

4. Athlete Development:
Such exposure is vital for athletes aiming to excel in continental and global championships in the future.

5. Strategic Benchmarking:
Participation allows the local athletics federation to assess current standards, helping to refine training programmes and athlete development strategies.

As the team embarks on this exciting journey, the entire nation rallies behind them. We extend our best wishes to Thobile, Melusi, and Mr Dlamini as they carry the hopes, spirit, and resilience of Eswatini across borders.

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